Hamlet – Barbican Centre – review

Second post on Hamlet with more detailed thoughts, including on how Benedict Cumberbatch’s performance evolved over the run, here.

After more than a year of waiting, I’ll get right down to it: this is a top-notch Hamlet. Benedict Cumberbatch is compelling, a fascinating presence on stage offering a thoughtful and fresh interpretation of the character: a Hamlet of intense feelings, lightning-quick ideas, and a surprising amount of humor. But there’s much more to this Hamlet than his performance, excellent as it is: this production is shaped by a bold directorial vision which offers a unique version of the play. Lyndsey Turner’s production is epic in scale, yet intimate and affecting in its quiet moments; as ever with Turner, there’s plenty to think about, captivatingly presented.

Fathers and Sons – Donmar Warehouse – review

Warning: spoilers.  Also: quite long

There is no better thing to do in London at the moment than to see Fathers and Sons at the Donmar Warehouse.  What a rich play this is, filled with fascinating, complex characters and intriguing philosophical questions—and what a brilliant production, with an incredible cast and sensitive direction (by Lyndsey Turner).  It’s completely taken me by surprise, but this is my favorite play I’ve seen in a good couple years.